Liza Lim invited to join the Academy of the Arts of the World

The German city of Cologne has officially launched its Akademie
der Kunste der Welt (Academy of the Arts of the World). 13
prominent artists, theorists and writers from around the world
were invited to be part of the Academy as its founding members,
including Australian composer Liza
Lim, currently based in the UK.

The Academy is seen as a new kind of artists' society,
'consciously positioning itself in opposition to the classic idea
of the academy, as a reaction to the changes in our society due
to globalisation and migration, with a focus on international and
non-European art and culture'. With its global orientation, the
Academy aims at promoting intercultural dialogue and artistic
collaboration, and 'stands for a cosmopolitan cultural life, an
artistic and political practice that goes beyond national, ethnic
and religious boundaries'.

The launch festival, entitled 'Cutting edge', had as its focal
point the topical debate regarding circumcision. The events were
covered extensively in the German press, including the musical
side of the festival, curated by Liza Lim. Her attempt to find
music that emphasises unifying factors between cultures was
rewarded with positive media attention. 'Musically, at any rate,
the Academy of the Arts of the World has succeeded in bridging
the gap.' reported Deutsche Welle ('Can art build bridges', 28 October 2012).

The Academy has no permanent residence but realises its projects
in cooperation with the different cultural institutions of the
City of Cologne. The Academy's activities include external
projects as well as Cologne-based activities, a fellowship
program, and a Youth Academy, through which the young people of
Cologne can carry out their own creative projects.

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The Australian Music Centre connects people around the world to Australian composers and sound artists. By facilitating the performance, awareness and appreciation of music by these creative artists, it aims to increase their profile and the sustainability of their art form. Established in 1974, the AMC is now the leading provider of information, resources, materials and products relating to Australian new music.

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